Data Base for Biodiversity of Andaman and Nicobar islands

Abstract

The Andaman and Nicobar group of islands covering an area of 8249 square kilometers with huge biodiversity both in terms of flora and fauna. These islands are considered to be the third most hotspots for biodiversity in the country. The agro biodiversity occupies a unique place within the overall ambit of biodiversity. A total of 14 rice cultivars are being cultivated by the farmers in various part of the islands. These islands are considered as reservoirs of medicinal plants, orchids and ferns having horticultural and floricultural importance. About 52 species of medicinal plants are being used by different tribal groups of the islands and over 1130 species of orchids & 120 ferns have been reported from A & N Islands. However, due to reckless exploitation, biodiversity faces the threat of extinction. Though, a vast array of literature on the biodiversity of islands exists, they are scattered and dispersed. This paper focuses on the details of database developed for documentation of biodiversity of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.